1.) He is tolerant with people's mean behavior towards him. He is kind, caring, helpful, generous, and of course, smart. He is very responsible and calm to whatever life throws at him.
2.) It means he wanted to get away form the teasing at the table so he went in the library for peace and quiet. The library is where he found solitude, or quiet.
3.) Probably because he was too kind and caring to let her stay there without a pencil and not be able to take the test. I think that was clever and sweet of him.
4.) He felt like he had no one again. He had just refused cheating, which is a good thing, yes, but that also could've started a friendship, something he needed. The book says, "If it was unpleasant to feel so different from the other children at Stonetown Orphanage, how much worse was it to be seen as an oddball by a green-haired girl wearing her own personal fog bank?" He was sad he still didn't have a friend.
5.) No, because are not honest and if you pass, you didn't really do it all by yourself. It sort of says you didn't know the answers so you used someone else's.
6.) Rules are made to keep things is order, that everyone does the same thing--fairness. I think there were a lot of rules in chapter one because it was a test, or period of tests to see who had the most talented qualities. That is why if they obeyed, passed and were smart enough, they would know what the "special oppertunities" were.
Sunday February 19, 2012
Spectacles and Buckets, Squares and Arrows, and The Trouble with Children, or Why are they Necessary
1.) I say he probably does like television but it's just that he has no one to enjoy it with. He has no parents and no friends. Only Miss Perumal who can't always be around.
2.) Probably because in the long run, they will need each other. And if they all passed the test, doesn't that kind of mean they should be friends?
3.) Probably because she's part of the tests. But if she was playing a character who came upon something unfortunate, shouldn't she act upset?
4.) Kate is outgoing, funky, clever, and kind. She is a good friend for someone who may not be 100% sure all the time because she is ready to take on a challenge. Sticky is a shy, quiet, smart, thoughtful boy who is a little unsure on things. He seeks comfort when he's skeptical through polishing his glasses. I don't think there really is a antagonist in this story. All the characters are protagonists. Although the orphanage children are mean for being so rude to Reynie.
1.) I think the house test was the most important because it tested your "riddle" or "puzzle" skills. It shows that you look for tricks like the wiggly panels and learn to recognize those things right away.
2.) I'd say they are mostly tested in riddles. The first test, where the answers were in the test, was making you keep your eyes open. The second one, with the squares/rectangles, made you look carefully too. And the house test made you be pretty aware too. So I guess they had you keep your eyes peeled.
3.) Because that's what makes them perfect for Mr. Benedict's 'team' he wants. If all the children could solve problems in the same way, then what good is that? If one child can't figure it out then all of them can't. It makes them unique.
4.) It is a disorder characterized by sudden and uncontrollable attacks of deep sleep. The condition is different for everyone who has it. In Mr. Benedicts case, it's usually triggered by strong emotions.
5.) It is inSouthern Africa. It is a landlocked country with 8 official languages.
6.) No, it is not a real language.
7.) I don't really have an idea. With all these crazy tests and characters, I can't really predict anything. I guess something that he couldn't accomplish on his own.
8.) "Vexed" can mean irritated or annoyed, much discussed or disputed, or tossed about as waves. I cannot find vexed in the chapters.
Tuesday February 21, 2012
The Senders and the Messangers
1.) With so much in common, Kate, Reynie, Sticky, and Constance still have dissimilar traits.
What are the traits they possess that bring them together? They all passed the 'boring' tests, they are all gifted, are children and are all alone. (As in they have no family or friends.)
2.) What causes discord among the team members? Maybe because the way their minds work. They all think differently so they may disagree on some things.
3.) What in their backgrounds and family life is similar? What is dissimilar? The (similer) similar things are they are orphans. They have no family. The families somehow ab ondoned their children, whether it was an accident (death) or on (pupose) purpose. The (dissimiler) dissimilar things are how they are living. Reynie is at an orphanage, Kate ran away from her orphanage to join the circus, Sticky stowed away on a river barge, and Constance secretly is living in the public library.
4.) How do the likenesses play a role in their assignment? If the kids are happy and excited to help out Mr. Benedict, then they will do a good job. Whereas Constance may be hiding her eagerness for some reason. She may just be stubborn so she is less (likey) likely to participate in the mission.
The Men in the Maze, Codes and Histories, The Things to Come and The Naming of the Crew
Monday February 27, 2012
1.) Why do you think that Mr. Benedict is telling the children to pay attention to what the Institute doesn't teach? They don't need to know what they are teaching, they just need to know what is going on that they can't see from Mr. Benidict's house,. In other words, they need to pay attention to what is happening 'behind the scenes'.
2.) What is Morse code? Who invented this communication system and what was it used for? It is a way of (secrectly) secretly communicating to someone by using a series of dots and dashes. Morse Code was invented by Samuel F. B. Morse. It was used for communication between ships at sea and between towns before there were telephones.
3.) Mr. Benedict on page 119 states, "Whether you always agree is inconsequential,..." What does this mean? How does this fit into the definition of a team? It means whether they always agree, it has little or no importance. A team will always have disagreements, but that is what makes a great team: greats people who think differently. The must figure out the answer together.
4.) When Sticky tells about his background, he says that philanthropists began sending his parents money, what are philanthropists? It also says that Sticky was astonished and mortified - about what? They are people who do things to help people; donating time or money... He was mortified and (atonished) astonished because when he (ws) was hiding, people started sending money to his parents to help find him. Then his parents looked less and less for Sticky so he ran away.
5.) Constance had a breakthrough on page 124, describe this event. After Sticky finished his story about running away, Constance wrote 'sorry' in Morse Code. She felt bad for him and showed it.
6.) Milligan has amnesia and wears disguises - why? He was captured by kidnappers and was hit in the head. They had said 'he was a tough one to crack'. He wears disguises because if the bad guys come again, if they (reconized) recognized Milligan and Milligan didn't (reconize) recognize them, he'd be in trouble.
7.) At the end of the chapter, Milligan couldn't look at the children - why? He was probably emotional remembering his past, which is like the only thing he can remember. He didn't want the (chldren) children to see his face.
8.) What is the "unintended consequence" mentioned on page 135? Mr. (Benidict) Benedict says that the voices in peoples heads are a side effect and the sender was just preparing them for something, the thing to come.
9.) Describe the Sender. His name is Ledroptha Curtain and he is a young scientist who is very smart. He invented these turbines to generate the energy on the Nomansan Islands. He published papers on everything. Then the papers stopped and no one heard from him for many years. I think he used that time to work on (soething) something we don't know about yet. Then he reappeared.
10.) Why was Reynie doubting his trust for Mr. Benedict? He didn't know whether to believe Mr. Benidict's predictions were true because he was an oddball. He didn't know if he could trust himself because of the spot he'd be put in for this mission: danger. I think Reynie should trust him because 1) he has nothing better to do, 2) it sounds like something he would miss out on if he said no and 3) he finally made friends. I don't think he would just walk away on a friendship. They all have things in (comman) common, so why not?
11.) What does the word "forged" mean on page 136? That word isn't on page 136.
12.) Again, why do you think that Constance is an important part of the team? Your answer should reflect change from the last time we discussed this. Well, one, she fits in with the rest of the team (children, alone, special. gifted), two, she must be important to Mr. (Benidict) Benedict somehow that the children don't see yet. We thought that maybe her (sassy-ness) sassiness would get them somewhere in there mission because people would get so annoyed with her.
13.) Why is Mr. Benedict commonly found on the floor? Because of his condition when he is alone Number Two and Rhonda have him sit on the floor because they don't want him to fall if they're not there to help.
14.) How could Constance we the key to the team's success? We thought because of her attitude and sass. Maybe people would get so annoyed with her, they would get an advance in the mission.
15.) On page 143, why is Reynie thanking Mr. Benedict? Reynie is thanking him for everything that's happened. I think (REynie) Reynie is thanking (hin) him because he finally feels like he has a family.
16.) What is The Mysterious Benedict Society? It is the name of the children's team, The Mysterious (Benidict) Benedict Society.
Wednesday February 29, 2012
Nomansan Island
1.) How are you enjoying this book so far? What questions do you currently have about this book that you think will be answered as we continue with the book? I think the book is very interesting and an attention-getter. It is hard to put the book down every chapter. I feel like they are giving clues about the book in the begining beginning like the first test the kids had to take; something you have to look out for. Sometimes I feel like the chapters are too long if I have to do the whole assignment in one night but the book definitly definetely is detailed and descriptive. It is full of information. For quetions questions, I want to know from Mr. Benedict why he chose Constance for the team. I want to know what the point of the secret messages is and what they mean.
2.) Who are the executives and what is their job? What's the difference between a messenger and an executive? The executives "run the show" at the Institute. The all dress the same. The difference is the job they do and that the messengers pants are striped, the executives are plain.
3.) Describe Jackson and Jillson. What do you think their role is in this book? They are rude, proper executives at the Institute and are easily irritated. For their roles, I feel like they are extra-specially important employes at the Institue Institute because, well, I don't know. From the way they act, they just seem to know whay- what they are doing really well. They act very important, like 'you shouldn't mess with me'.
4.) On page 160 it states that Kate was, "trying to prove she didn't need anyone's help and this was easiest to believe when she was doing what she was good at." What do you think this means? So Kate's mom died when she was young and her dad left her. SHe didn't like being at an orphanage and kept running away. She must have felt abandond abandoned because she has taken care of herself all these years (with her bucket, which is almost like the only thing she has left,) and is trying to prove she doesn't need anyone. She must be really hurt inside knowing that her parents (well, not so much her mom but,) didn't want her. She believes that she is very good at taking care of herself (which I would agree with,) so when she is taking charge and being a leader, she thinks that this makes her feel that she really doesn't need anyone's help.
5.) The end of the chapter ends with a cliff-hanger. What is a cliff-hanger and why it important? I don't get the question, it doesn't talk about a cliff-hanger at the end of the chapter. What is a cliff-hanger? Every chapter in this book ends with a cliff-hanger. Bring this up at our group time.
Traps and Nonsense
6.) Why do you think there was a trap disguised with a plant on top? Do you think this will be important later in the book? What is that called when an author gives you clues as to what is going to occur further into the book? Maybe because of exactly what the kids were doing: being secret agents. The MBS team was exploring for anything unusual, any clues, any information to report to Mr. Benedict, so the Institue Institute may have set up traps to catch those people. Yes, I think it will be important later in the book. Maybe it will lead to some underground lab or something. I'm not sure about that last question.
7.) Who are the helpers? They are, well, helpers. They cook, clean, and handle maintenance.
8.) On page 166, the phrase "Whatever floats your boat," is an idiom. What is an idiom and what does this phrase mean? An idiom as dictionary.com states, "an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements." For this idiom, it pretty much means, whatever works for you. Like, I don't care, however you like to do things.
9.) What do you think about the Institute having no rules? How is this statement contradicted? Well, its "has no rules" promise comes with ules rules. For example, they can keep their lights on as late as you want each night until 10 o'clock pm. It makes no sense.
10.) What is a free market? Why do they have to memorize a chant about the free market? It is a 'free' and 'controlled in certain cases' place. We don't really know what it is and it said in the book that the kids would find out later why they have to memorize that chant. fate and diminutive size from page 152 ardous from page 164
Fate: Fate is like what lies ahead in your future. It is like predetermained predetermined.
Diminutive Size: I'm going to say unusual or small size.
Arduous: It was dificult difficult and required lots of labor.
Sunday March 4, 2012
Beware the Gemini and Lessons Learned
1.) On page 174 it states that the new kids always felt "conspicuous," what does this word mean? Conspicuous means easily seen or noticed. In the book, it probably means that the new kids felt like they couldn't hide; they felt like everybody could se them.
2.) What are the "recruiters" and "Institute scouts" that they are referring to? I think that these two title's mean or are referring to "unexpected new arrivals" but I'm not sure. I found this on page 175.
3.) What clues are mentioned in the book that might suggest that the new arrivals might have been kidnapped? Use text evidence in your answer. On page 175, it said that both the boy and the girl wore a dazed expression and ill-fitting clothes and their hair was wet from recent baths. THey they were the only ones who didn't seem happy.
4.) Describe Mr. Curtain. He had thick white hair, large round glasses with silver reflective lenses, cheeks reddened and his nose was large and lumpy, much like Mr. Benedict's. He wheeled around it a mobile cart. The MBS thinks he is Mr. Benedict because of the resemblence resemblance. He terrifies you, looks down at children and knows nothing about you. The exact opposite of Mr. Benedict.
5.) Could Mr. Curtain and Mr. Benedict be the same person? Yes, but I don't know why he would come over to the Institute and pretend to be someone he's not. It doesn't make sense. If the children were tricked, what is the point of it?
6.) Why would everything be backwards at the institute? What might their reasons for this be? Maybe everything's backwards because it is like the opposite of Mr. Benedict's house. The purpose that the MBS is there is to find information about these secret messages being sent through signals. Mr. Benedict's team is good. Mr. Curtain's is bad, right?
7.) What does the word "sasquatch" mean that is mentioned on page 179? The word sasquatch means big foot, or like a big beast or something.
8.) What is a cryptic message and why would this be important? A cryptic message is a message written in code, usually in the form of a puzzle. It is important in this book because that is the way MBS reports to their base. If they sent regular messages, the Institute would find out what is going on eventually.
9.) On page 184 it states, "As is always the case with a society, some arguing remained to be done." Is this true and why might this be important to all societies? I think this means that in every society, people will disagree. Yes, I think it's true because otherwise, how will the society get anywhere. A good team needs good thinkers who have different opinins opinions.
10.) What is "gemini" and why is this word important to this chapter? A gemini is a zodiac sign, a sign that is based on your birthday and what month you were born in. This is important because it gives a good, big clue. The sign for gimini gemini is twins. If Mr. Benedict and Mr. Curtain are long-lost brothers that makes sense; twins.
1. Why do you think that no mirrors can be found at the Institute? Ithink I think it might have something to do with these signals being sent out. Maybe they will bounce off of a mirror and send to somewhere it wasn't supposed to go.
2.) Find the idiom on page 188 and explain what it means. A stitch in time saves nine. This idiom means doing something now rather than later. For example, if your shirt has a loose thread, you should sew it now rather than later when you have to sew 'nine more stitches' and the thread is looser.
3.) What do you think of the statement, found on page 189, "Because it was impossible, in the end, to protect yourself from anything - no matter how hard you tried - it was important to try as hard as you could to protect yourself from everything." What does it mean in the story and what does it mean in life? In the book it means they have to be prepared to protect yourself from anything and everything. Try as hard as you can to protect yourself from germs but that's not going to protect you from germs. In life it means no matter how hard you try to avoid things you don't want to happen it will happen.
4. Why would SQ say she was "astounded or astonished" when Sticky and Reynie had received perfect scores? Why would this upset Martina? 5. What lessons had the kids learned in this chapter? What would this chapter be named, "Lessons Learned?" He was so shocked because it is really rare to get perfect scores. It probably upset Martina because she wants to be a messenger and the bys boys having perfect scores puts them higher up than her. The MBS learned more about how the Institute works and runs. THey learned lessons that were obvious and beyond obvious.
Monday March 5, 2012
People and Places to be Avoided
6.) The Helpers "averted" their eyes and had a "constant show of deference," why and what does this mean? This means the helpers were turning away or avoiding the children's eyes and had a constant show of respecting the judgement or order of someone else (Mr. Curtain). They were doing this because it was Mr. Curtains strict rules not to 'socialize' I guess or communicate with students at the Institute. They were doing their jobs very well.
7.) Why do you think that Mr. Curtain often was looking toward the bridge and off into the distance? He probably has a lot on his mind and doesn't want to be bothered. Or maybe that is what he is getting a break from: stress. He could be just brainstorming or thinking or just taking some time for himself.
8.) On page 201 it says that the corridor erupted into a "cacophony," what does this mean? Cacphony cacophony means a harsh, loud sound. The book meant that the kids were talking very loud and grim.
9.) Why wouldn't the students want to go to the Waiting Room? Use text evidence to support your answer. From the way kids acted in the book, it seems as if there is a myth, legend, 'curse' or backstory to the Waiting Room. Something must of happened either to a previous student or helper or something because from the bottom of page 200 to 202, this Corliss kid is dreading yet hesitating going to the Waiting Room because he doesn't want to upset Mr. Curtain. All the other bystanders in the corridor are gasping like it's a huge and murmuring quietly. I think the MBS will find out what is going on.
Wednesday March 7, 2012
Logical Couclusions and Miscalculations, Poison Apples, Poison Worms and A Surprising Suggestion
1. What does the simile "his eyelids felt heavy as anvils" mean? An amvil anvil is a heavy iron block with a smooth surface, usually of steel. The simile means that his eyelids felt like heavy iron; they could barely stay up.
2. On page 210, Jackson stated, "You can say whatever you like when you have permission, right now no one has permission." What is he referring to? He is saying you can say whatever you want when you are told you can. He is saying you can talk when you are called on, and right now, no one is called on.
3. On page 211, Sticky could feel the "malice," what does this mean? Martina was glaring at Sticky, she was obviously angry and jelous-as jealous usual. Malice means
"evil intent on the part of a person who commits a wrongful act injurious to others." from dictionary.com. So he could feel Martina's evil glare on him and felt as if she were going to hurt him.
4. Why is this chapter called Logical Conclusions and Miscalculations? Logical Conclusions because of the lessons they are 'learning' but don't understand. Miscalculations maybe because of what happened in class with Jackson and Martina.
5. How does fruit fit in with the discussion of taxes, war, health, the justice system.....? Jillson refered reffered to an apple for the government because on the outside, from what we can see, looks all polished and perfect, like an apple. But the inside might be different, poisonous because we can't see what they are really doing. Same thing with the people inside, poisinous poisonous worms.
6. The symbol poison apples, poison worms refers to what? This answer is pretty much in the last question.
7. Reynie looked at the literal meaning of being poisoned, was he wrong? Explain your reasoning. Yes, he thought that Martina had told the Helpers to put poisin in the MBS lunches because she despises them. But then he figured out that it was really the hidden messages. He must of blamed Martina because of the anger emotion he was reciving recieving.
8. On page 216, it states that, "Most of us will simple feel irritable and confused." Have you heard this before? Where and what were they referring to? They will feel that way because they have special minds that recive recieve the messages and irritation as well. Mr. Benedict had pointed this out before the kids left.
9. Mr. Benedict told the children that their love for the truth will protect them, what does this mean? Their love for the truth is being a good student and NOT CHEATING. If they behave good and the less trouble they get in, the more info they will find because people are't aren't keeping a close eye on them.
10. Why can Constance hear the Messenger's voice? She has a 'sensitive' mind so she hears the messages more, I guess, severe than the others.
11. Explain the response the children got from the mainland on page 219. Their saying they have less time than what was expected but still need to hurry and get the information that is not taught. They are saying try something else to get the girls up to pace, cheat, which is what they are all not. Cheaters.
12. Why is it so important that the children become Messengers as quickly as possible? When they are messengers, they know more information about rhe "behind the scences scenes" stuff. And they can do more snooping.
13. What does the word "evasively" mean at the bottom of page 222? Evasively means to get away from something with cleverness and/or trickery. Kate was almost doubting Constance trying her best but didn't want her making a fuss so covered it up.
14. Why couldn't Charlie explain about the special privileges? It is probablty probably against rules and he is probably a good student so he didn't want to ruin things right before his graduation. Also, S.Q. was right there.
1. Why was Reynie jealous? He felt sympathy (or so he thought) for the 2 new special recruits because they had nowhere and no one else to turn to if they were kidknapped kidnapped. Later, he realized that his sympathy was jelously jealousy. Maybe because he didn't make it on the new messengers list. Or that the special recruits would only focus on the Institute and become messengers and be important. Be part of something. Maybe that is what made Reynie jealous.
2. On page 236, it says that Mr. Curtain rolled his chair almost "imperceptibly", what does this mean? It means very slightly, so his chair was moving very slightly closer to Reynie.
3. "If you don't trust them, keep them close." What does this mean and why would Reynie say this statement? If you think they'll cause trouble, then keep them close so you can keep a close eye on them. Reynie might've said it to 1.) Just keep the conversation with Mr. Curtain moving or 2.) maybe because he is trying to get Mr. Curtain to make Constance a messenger so then he could "keep an eye on her."
4. What is a sense of "deja vu?" (page 238) It is where you feel like you have already seen, heard or experienced something before and it can get sort of irritating.
5. "Control is always the key." What is this supposed to mean? When you have control, things will go smoothly and right. When you don't have control, things could get caotic.
Of Families Lost and Found
1. Why is this chapter called Of Families Lost and Found? When the team reported to Mr. Benedict, they replied "What has been lost may yet be found. Have hope." The team was also talking about the brainwashing so people forget everything, includin including their families. Some may not be completely lost, like Milligan.
2. On page 254, it states, "What has been lost may yet be found, Have hope." What does this message from the mainland mean? This could refer to people's memories. Again, like Milligan, people could remember SOME things.
3. Respond to Reynie's idea of what a family might be all about, "I have no experience, but well, is this what family is like? The feeling that everyone's connected, that with one piece missing the whole thing's broken?" I think it's true. But it depends on his definition of 'missing.' Like, dead, or gone for a weekend on a buisness trip or something. Since Reynie has never really had a family, I guess both would be considered missing because family would be so special.
4. On page 257, it, "family is often born of blood, but it doesn't depend on blood." What does this mean? In your family, you are born of the same blood. But you could consider good friends family as if they were born of your blood.
5. What was the cliff hanger in the chapter Of Families Lost and Found? At the end, when Reynie says "Maybe we don't HAVE to lay hands on Mr. Curtain's journal."
6. Why do you think that family is such an important theme that is woven in and out of almost each chapter? Well, because none of the kids in MBS really have a family anymore. It is important to them because it was taken away from them. Maybe because the team and Mr.Benedict's team are now a family, a new one that they never had.
7. What does "Tactical Caciupi" mean and why would the author name this chapter that title? I think it means you have a plan and/or procedure to get to a certain end or result. (The team was trying to read the journal.)
8. Why would Mr. Curtain say that one of his biggest accomplishments would be the invention of his tidal turbines? Explain what these are and how might they be used on the island. The turbines created enough energy to power 100 Institutes, let alone 1. When the Institute broadcasts the hidden messages it's a weak signal. The turbines can produce lots of energy to send these messages on random signals on high-power energy. Which, you can see, is why Mr.Curtain would consider this a big accomplishment.
9. What was Kate using her spy glass/kaleidoscope for? She was spying in Mr. Curtain's secret journal while Reynie was stalling him on the pages. It helped her see closer, like a magnifying glass.
10. Knowing Sticky's talents, what do you think he is being used for when it comes to the journal? His memory that remembers everything he sees.
11. On page 267, the first entry is read and one part states, "There is no such thing as perfect control. I have come to understand, however, that the illusion of perfect control can amount to the same thing." What does this mean and what implications might this have on the story? Well, it means that you can't have perfect control, but if you lie about it or trick someone, it can almost be the same thing.
12. How can you have an illusion of control? Maybe by brainwashing people...? If you make them think that they are under control by repetetly repeatedly telling them things to make it believe it is true.
13. Explain "brainsweeping." By telling a person things repetetly repeatedly, you could brainwash someone into making them believe something else. Then eventually, after the keep hearing the things you want them to think, they will meet your goal.
14. Why aren't the special recruits every scared? They have been completely brainwashed so they can't remember anything from their past. So they have really nothing to worry about. Some people like Milligan, can remember some things.
15. What do you think the "improvement" is that they are talking about on page 270? I think they are getting ready to broadcast the hidden messages at full power.
16. What do you think his message on page 272 means? That maybe after the messages are sent, he will brainwash everyone and so these are things he will tell them to make them sweeped swept.
Thursday March 15, 2012
Caught In the Act, The Waiting Room
1. Why is this chapter called, "Caught in the Act?" It is called "Caught In the Act" because Sticky had been caught for cheating by Jillson. She had seen him pulling at his ear, helping Constance.
2. On page 277 it says, "precipice." What does this mean and how is it used in the sentence? "Precipice" means a vertical cliff. In the book, Reynie had a bad dream where he had fallen off a precipice.
3. Why were Reynie, Kate and Constance trying to climb the wall? They were climbing the wall because they were trying to see what the Executives were doing in the gym when it was closed.
4. Again, it mentions the "improvement." Any clues as to what this might be? I think they mean that Mr. Curtain is about to broadcast the hidden messages at full-power from the turbines because he is improving the amount of messages being sent out and how much energy they use.
5. On page 282, the word "ominous" is used. What does this word mean and how is it used in the sentence? "Ominous" means it means evil or harm, threatining threatening. In the book, the back door gave a threatining threatening thump when S.Q. opened it after he saw Reynie.
6. Describe Sticky as he came out of the Waiting Room. Walking in the room like a zombie, Sticky was covered in slimy black mud that carried a horrible odor. He had red, swollen eyes that gave a look of total despair. He was speechless.
7. Why wouldn't Sticky talk after he came out? I guess he just didn't want to talk about it. It was an awful place. He was just happy to get out of there.
8. List the main characters and what they have to offer to a "team." Why might this be important to the rest of the book? (Reynie, Constance, Kate and Sticky) Reynie is smart, and a problem solver. He knows how to get around a tough spot. Kate is cheery, bold, daring and clever. She think of ideas no one else would and always has the right tool for the job. Sticky is very smart and a thinker. He remembers everything he sees perfectly. Constance is a little on the rude side and small. She could fit into small spaces and she is not afrais afraid to say what she thinks. There is also a kind side to her.
9. What was the main idea for this chapter? Give two supporting details. The main idea of the Waiting Room is Sticky getting out of the waiting room. Reynie and Kate both reassure him that he is going to be fine and they would always be there to back him up. Like Reynie said " ...But it's still you in there Sticky- still my good friend!" Kate also said "If they send you back there (to the waiting room) we'll find a way to get you out."
1. What was the dilemma that Sticky was facing with Mr. Curtain? What would you have done? He had to confess about cheting but not tell about Mr. Benedict and why the MBS is really there. I would've, well... I don't know if I would've blamed Martina because she might've been a danger, and I wouldn't of denied it because it would've made the Exectuives executives be more cautious around you. I don't know...
2. State Mr. Curtain's view on the idea of "control." He's idea of control is erasing your memory of your old life. You are under his power basically
3. Why do you think that Sticky got off the hook for cheating and Reynie got off the hook for lying? For Sticky, I guess they've realized that he is hard on pressure so they weren't that hard on him but Mr. Curtain believed him when he said that Martina made him do it. For Reynie, they must have just thought they reconized recognized the other boys face.
4, On page 304 it states that Martina's face, "shone with malevolence," what does this mean and how does that apply to this sentence? It means she wished harm to come to the other students because they would be jealous of her. It fits in because Martina's personality is evil and mean.
5. Why would Martina be promoted to Executive? Give reasons and your thinking as to why. Mr. Curtain remembered Reynie saying if you don't trust them keep them close. So this way he can keep an eye on her more than before.
6. What does it mean when Mr. Curtain says that the "best way of dealing with those you don't trust is to keep them close." Reynie said this and now so has Mr. Curtain - what do you think this means for the both of them? It means if you keep someone you don't trust close, you'll see more of them than before. You can keep a closer eye on them. I think for them it means you can see the secrets of the other person you want to know.
7. Why did Mr. Curtain make Sticky and Reynie messengers? Maybe it's like the answer to the last question. Mr. Curtain might not trust them because they're new and acing all their tests. He wants to keep an eye on them.
8. The coded message read: With open eyes now you may find A place you must exit to enter. Where one ----
What do you think this message might mean? Give reasons for your thinking. With eyes now open... so they must have been closed before?? It sounds like Mr. Benedict and his team know about something that they don't. A place you must exit to enter... they must have seen something with their telescopes. Where one-- that could mean anything; where one lives, where one thinks... that part is hard.
Monday, March 19th
Read The Whisperer and Open Sesame
Due Wednesday, March 21st
1. At the beginning of the chapter, Reynie has a dream. What do you think the dream means?
Reynie's dream was that he had actually written out his letters to Miss Perumal and Jackson had found them. Jackson had been smirking "We've got you!" and "It's the Waiting Room for you!" I think the dream means Reynie was afraid that someone at the Institute would find out about why the MBS is really there. He could've also been scared about becoming a messenger or something.
2. On page 314, it states that Reynie and Sticky shook hands "resolutely," what does this mean and how does it fit into the sentence?
'Resolutely' means determined; set in purpose or opinion. It makes sense because Reynie and Sticky had just agreed to be 'on their toes' because this was their fist day of being messengers. They shook hands with a purpose, like the definition says.
3. On page 315, Jackson refers to Sticky or George as "dimwitted," what does this mean and how does it fit into the sentence?
'Dimwit' means stupid or slow-thinking. It fits in because Sticky was slow-thinking. He had asked about classes while Jackson, Reynie and himself were on their way to the Whispering Gallery. The classes were to prepare you if you ever became a messenger or executive. That's why Jackson refers to Sticky as a dimwit.
4. Why couldn't the boys know the way to the Whispering Gallery? I'm guessing maybe because if they knew where it was a curious student at the Institute may go in and explore or something. I think it all has to do with Mr. Curtain's secrets of the Institute.
5. Describe the Whispering Gallery. The Whispering Gallery is a large, simple room with no furniture except for a single desk, two cushions and the whisperer itself. It is a machine resembling an old-fashioned salon-styled hair dryer. There is not much in the room so nothing will damage the machine, nothing to be used at all for a weapon.
6. On page 317, it states that the Whispering Gallery is so "austere," what does this mean? 'Austere' means severe in manner or appearance, strict, forbidding. The room is very strict of security and forbidding heavy objects that may damage the whisperer.
7. Again the idea of control comes up over and over, why? Mr. Curtain believes that if everything and everyone is doing what he wants them to do and they are under his "control," his plan will succeed. He controls them by brainsweeping them and makes them forget their old life or old identity. He feels this is the key to his plan.
8. Describe what The Whispering can do and not do. The Whispering can make you feel happy; it "fills you with an astonishing sense of well-being." It can talk to you through thoughts and can read your thoughts, too. It cannot make you do anything, like it cannot make you think something. It cannot work without Mr. Curtain in his red helmet, either connected to it.
9. On page 319, when Renyie states that, "They go down easier, like candy rather than medicine." What is he talking about? Mr. Curtain was saying how their function in the Whisperer is "that of a filter". Mr. Curtain's thoughts onced passed through their minds are more easily procesed. So Reynie restated that as "they go down easier, like candy rather than medicine.
10. On page 319 it refers to "inputting data," what is this? Mr. Curtain's explaination for the Whisperer was that they were giving data of information in their minds when really, they were being broadcast to others.
11. On page 321, it states, "poison apples, poison worms," again - now what is this referring to? Why is this phrase repeated throughout the book? It is refering to that things can look good and polished on the outside-like government- but be poisonous on the inside. Same thing with people. Maybe it is repeating in the book because it is pretty much what the Institute is doing; tricking you into thinking they are the good guys when they really aren't.
12. On the last page of The Whisperer" it ends with Sticky saying, "Not being wanted, not being wanted at all," what was the question? The question was "What do you fear most?" and that was Sticky's answer. I feel so bad for him! : (
13. Why didn't Reynie want to sit and eat with the rest of the messengers? What excuse did he give the messenger? He didn't want to be split apart from Kate and Constance because they are his team and the boys needed to fill they girls in. His excuse was "stomach viruses."
14. On page 333, when Constance says that Reynie is "on," what does this mean? When Reynie was in the Whisperer, he was being recorded of all the hidden messages he heard. They broadcast his recording and so Constance was hearing the message Reynie and the real one.
15. How do we know that Mr. Curtain will be done with the Messengers after "the Improvement?" The Improvement is recording the messages I think. So the messengers use the Whisperer to record and once all the hidden messages are recorded, there won't be a use for the messengers any more.
16. What are the clues about the trap? I don't exactally get the question... more clarification please!
17. How did the kids figure out the code? S.Q. left a not saying "LOSE the new code? Turn OVER for the new code!" So when you turn the paper upsidedown, LOSE, looks like 3507, the code.
Wednesday, March 21st
Read Practice Makes Perfect and Know Thine Enemy
Answer the following questions and make sure that you have part of each question into each answer.
Due Friday, March 23rd
1. Why is this chapter called "Practice Makes Perfect?" I think it's called "Practice Makes Perfect" because after the kids get out of the box in Mr. Curtain's secret room, they find enough evidence to figure out that the helpers, the messengers, the recruiters, they are all part of an experiment of Mr. Curtain's. He has been practicing on them and everyone at the Institute before he really launches his plan.
2. Why would the government press releases be dated for the future? Mr. Curtain is preparing for the future when he sends the mesages all over the world and makes them like him. The press releases are articles Mr. Curtain intends to have printed when everybody likes him, or msybe to get the last few people who resist him to like him.
3. What does the article and page 346/347 mean? The messages that Mr. Curtain are creating to send out are a trick. He is going to make people think that these random messages are a "crisis" and he will be the "hero." He basically is just getting people to like him.
4. Why would Mr. Curtain want to create fear in everyone? Mr. Curtain thinks that the most important element in human personality is fear. That's is why the Whisperer has so much liking from the messengers, it soothes their fears and he uses it to motivate them. If he created a fear that everyone would have in common, he could solve it easily and everyone would stand by him. He intends to make everyone feel like the messengers.
5. Why would Mr. Curtain want to put together an Amnesia Sanctuary? He needs a place to put the people who resist him. I think he will do what he did to Milligan, make themn forget everything and brainsweep them, therefore making them put their trust in Mr. Curtain.
6. Why is this chapter called, "Know Thine Enemy?" They spot Milligan while sending a message. Mr. Benedict's response is "Know Thine Enemy." I think that is because Milligan was dressed as a recruiter, so I think that is why they didn't reply because they wanted them to spot Milligan. They wanted them to look out for people before they sent the message back so they would see Milligan.
7. What is the "memory terminal?" It is an underground warehouse with many crates filled with, I think Whisperers (because Reynie saw a crate with machine parts and saw a red and blue helmet) to ship all over the world (like China.) Then he can use the Whisperer on everyone and make them feel like the messengers.
8. On page 353, Reynie states, "But we are too late! Much, much too late," what is he referring to? They were too late because Mr. Curtain was ready to complete his plan. They were looking at all the crates and stuff in the memory terminal and realized they had almost run out of time.
9. Who was the "recruiter" staring up at the window at night? It was Milligan. He was the "enemy" from the message. They were trying to get the children to look out and see him.
10. Why would he send the message to hurry? He wanted them to come to him, so they could get off the island and put them in a safer home. Now that Mr. Curtain couldn't be stopped, the MBS needed to be 'safe'.
11. Why was Milligan on the island? He had come to get the kids because their mission was complete and they needed to stay safe and get off the island.
12. Why wouldn't the kids follow Milligan? The kids (well, at least Reynie and Kate) felt the need to help the other brainswept people and stop Mr. Curtain. They felt as if they couldn't leave the island.
13. What was the message that Mr. Benedict sent with Milligan to give to the kids? In the book, Milligan says to the MBS, "Mr. Benedict said to remind you that everyone of you is essential to the sucsess of the team- that now more than ever, you must rely upon one another in all things. What's more, you must rely upon me. Whatever develops, I'm here to help you. I'm staying on the island. When the time comes, this is the place to contact me."
Friday, March 23rd
Read A Chess Lesson and The Mouse in the Culvert
Due Monday, March 26th
1. What is Reynie's plan that he refers to on page 364? He didn't really have a plan. All he could come up with was to disable the Whisperer. He thought it was a stupid plan but Kate loved it.
2. Why was Reynie so afraid of "betraying?" He thought that he and Sticky were afraid of betraying how strongly the Whisperer was affecting them. He was the leader of the group because everyone looked at him for ideas and stuff, but he thought he was letting Mr. Benedict down because he didn't have the characteristics of one. He was also mad at himself for letting Kate go alone to try to disable the Whisperer.
3. Why was Reynie doubting himself? Reynie feels like he isn't brave or clever enough to be a leader like Mr. Benedict wanted. He sends him a message and he sends back a message saying not to doubt yourself, like the white knight in the first tests in the beginning.
4. Why was Reynie sending Mr. Benedict a message? He wanted advice, encouragement, guidence or anything to help him. He thought that if everyone in the group loked up to him, then he had to look up to Mr. Benedict.
5. What was the message that Mr. Benedict sent back? He sent back "Remember the White Knight."
6. What did the message mean? The night Mr. Benedict and Reynie were talking about it, Reynie thought that it wasn't a good move and he might've chose it because he doubted himself. Mr. Benedict was saying not to doubt yourself.
7. How did Kate get into the elevator? She stood on her bucket and unscrewed the mantinence shaft above and climbed up the cable.
8. Why didn't she want to push any of the buttons in the elevator? If she pushed the buttons, the elevator would make noise and then Jackson would hear and catch her in the act, like Sticky.
9. How does Mr. Curtain deal with the subject of fear? The messages that are sent through the Whisperer deny the fears so that they go away just for a little while. Then they come back later.
10. What is Martina's job? She will help with the sweepers in the memory terminal. I think the sweepers are like whisperers.
11. How did Mr. Curtain make sure no one was in the culvert? He poured down his steaming hot water and listen for a cry of pain.
12. What did Kate see in the water that had deceived her? She saw jagged rocks in the water that looked like shark fins.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Pencils, Erasers and Disqualification
1.) He is tolerant with people's mean behavior towards him. He is kind, caring, helpful, generous, and of course, smart. He is very responsible and calm to whatever life throws at him.
2.) It means he wanted to get away form the teasing at the table so he went in the library for peace and quiet. The library is where he found solitude, or quiet.
3.) Probably because he was too kind and caring to let her stay there without a pencil and not be able to take the test. I think that was clever and sweet of him.
4.) He felt like he had no one again. He had just refused cheating, which is a good thing, yes, but that also could've started a friendship, something he needed. The book says, "If it was unpleasant to feel so different from the other children at Stonetown Orphanage, how much worse was it to be seen as an oddball by a green-haired girl wearing her own personal fog bank?" He was sad he still didn't have a friend.
5.) No, because are not honest and if you pass, you didn't really do it all by yourself. It sort of says you didn't know the answers so you used someone else's.
6.) Rules are made to keep things is order, that everyone does the same thing--fairness. I think there were a lot of rules in chapter one because it was a test, or period of tests to see who had the most talented qualities. That is why if they obeyed, passed and were smart enough, they would know what the "special oppertunities" were.
Sunday February 19, 2012
Spectacles and Buckets, Squares and Arrows, and The Trouble with Children, or Why are they Necessary
1.) I say he probably does like television but it's just that he has no one to enjoy it with. He has no parents and no friends. Only Miss Perumal who can't always be around.
2.) Probably because in the long run, they will need each other. And if they all passed the test, doesn't that kind of mean they should be friends?
3.) Probably because she's part of the tests. But if she was playing a character who came upon something unfortunate, shouldn't she act upset?
4.) Kate is outgoing, funky, clever, and kind. She is a good friend for someone who may not be 100% sure all the time because she is ready to take on a challenge. Sticky is a shy, quiet, smart, thoughtful boy who is a little unsure on things. He seeks comfort when he's skeptical through polishing his glasses. I don't think there really is a antagonist in this story. All the characters are protagonists. Although the orphanage children are mean for being so rude to Reynie.
1.) I think the house test was the most important because it tested your "riddle" or "puzzle" skills. It shows that you look for tricks like the wiggly panels and learn to recognize those things right away.
2.) I'd say they are mostly tested in riddles. The first test, where the answers were in the test, was making you keep your eyes open. The second one, with the squares/rectangles, made you look carefully too. And the house test made you be pretty aware too. So I guess they had you keep your eyes peeled.
3.) Because that's what makes them perfect for Mr. Benedict's 'team' he wants. If all the children could solve problems in the same way, then what good is that? If one child can't figure it out then all of them can't. It makes them unique.
4.) It is a disorder characterized by sudden and uncontrollable attacks of deep sleep. The condition is different for everyone who has it. In Mr. Benedicts case, it's usually triggered by strong emotions.
5.) It is inSouthern Africa. It is a landlocked country with 8 official languages.
6.) No, it is not a real language.
7.) I don't really have an idea. With all these crazy tests and characters, I can't really predict anything. I guess something that he couldn't accomplish on his own.
8.) "Vexed" can mean irritated or annoyed, much discussed or disputed, or tossed about as waves. I cannot find vexed in the chapters.
Tuesday February 21, 2012
The Senders and the Messangers
1.) With so much in common, Kate, Reynie, Sticky, and Constance still have dissimilar traits.
What are the traits they possess that bring them together? They all passed the 'boring' tests, they are all gifted, are children and are all alone. (As in they have no family or friends.)
2.) What causes discord among the team members? Maybe because the way their minds work. They all think differently so they may disagree on some things.
3.) What in their backgrounds and family life is similar? What is dissimilar? The (similer) similar things are they are orphans. They have no family. The families somehow ab ondoned their children, whether it was an accident (death) or on (pupose) purpose. The (dissimiler) dissimilar things are how they are living. Reynie is at an orphanage, Kate ran away from her orphanage to join the circus, Sticky stowed away on a river barge, and Constance secretly is living in the public library.
4.) How do the likenesses play a role in their assignment? If the kids are happy and excited to help out Mr. Benedict, then they will do a good job. Whereas Constance may be hiding her eagerness for some reason. She may just be stubborn so she is less (likey) likely to participate in the mission.
The Men in the Maze, Codes and Histories, The Things to Come and The Naming of the Crew
Monday February 27, 2012
1.) Why do you think that Mr. Benedict is telling the children to pay attention to what the Institute doesn't teach? They don't need to know what they are teaching, they just need to know what is going on that they can't see from Mr. Benidict's house,. In other words, they need to pay attention to what is happening 'behind the scenes'.
2.) What is Morse code? Who invented this communication system and what was it used for? It is a way of (secrectly) secretly communicating to someone by using a series of dots and dashes. Morse Code was invented by Samuel F. B. Morse. It was used for communication between ships at sea and between towns before there were telephones.
3.) Mr. Benedict on page 119 states, "Whether you always agree is inconsequential,..." What does this mean? How does this fit into the definition of a team? It means whether they always agree, it has little or no importance. A team will always have disagreements, but that is what makes a great team: greats people who think differently. The must figure out the answer together.
4.) When Sticky tells about his background, he says that philanthropists began sending his parents money, what are philanthropists? It also says that Sticky was astonished and mortified - about what? They are people who do things to help people; donating time or money... He was mortified and (atonished) astonished because when he (ws) was hiding, people started sending money to his parents to help find him. Then his parents looked less and less for Sticky so he ran away.
5.) Constance had a breakthrough on page 124, describe this event. After Sticky finished his story about running away, Constance wrote 'sorry' in Morse Code. She felt bad for him and showed it.
6.) Milligan has amnesia and wears disguises - why? He was captured by kidnappers and was hit in the head. They had said 'he was a tough one to crack'. He wears disguises because if the bad guys come again, if they (reconized) recognized Milligan and Milligan didn't (reconize) recognize them, he'd be in trouble.
7.) At the end of the chapter, Milligan couldn't look at the children - why? He was probably emotional remembering his past, which is like the only thing he can remember. He didn't want the (chldren) children to see his face.
8.) What is the "unintended consequence" mentioned on page 135? Mr. (Benidict) Benedict says that the voices in peoples heads are a side effect and the sender was just preparing them for something, the thing to come.
9.) Describe the Sender. His name is Ledroptha Curtain and he is a young scientist who is very smart. He invented these turbines to generate the energy on the Nomansan Islands. He published papers on everything. Then the papers stopped and no one heard from him for many years. I think he used that time to work on (soething) something we don't know about yet. Then he reappeared.
10.) Why was Reynie doubting his trust for Mr. Benedict? He didn't know whether to believe Mr. Benidict's predictions were true because he was an oddball. He didn't know if he could trust himself because of the spot he'd be put in for this mission: danger. I think Reynie should trust him because 1) he has nothing better to do, 2) it sounds like something he would miss out on if he said no and 3) he finally made friends. I don't think he would just walk away on a friendship. They all have things in (comman) common, so why not?
11.) What does the word "forged" mean on page 136? That word isn't on page 136.
12.) Again, why do you think that Constance is an important part of the team? Your answer should reflect change from the last time we discussed this. Well, one, she fits in with the rest of the team (children, alone, special. gifted), two, she must be important to Mr. (Benidict) Benedict somehow that the children don't see yet. We thought that maybe her (sassy-ness) sassiness would get them somewhere in there mission because people would get so annoyed with her.
13.) Why is Mr. Benedict commonly found on the floor? Because of his condition when he is alone Number Two and Rhonda have him sit on the floor because they don't want him to fall if they're not there to help.
14.) How could Constance we the key to the team's success? We thought because of her attitude and sass. Maybe people would get so annoyed with her, they would get an advance in the mission.
15.) On page 143, why is Reynie thanking Mr. Benedict? Reynie is thanking him for everything that's happened. I think (REynie) Reynie is thanking (hin) him because he finally feels like he has a family.
16.) What is The Mysterious Benedict Society? It is the name of the children's team, The Mysterious (Benidict) Benedict Society.
Wednesday February 29, 2012
Nomansan Island
1.) How are you enjoying this book so far? What questions do you currently have about this book that you think will be answered as we continue with the book? I think the book is very interesting and an attention-getter. It is hard to put the book down every chapter. I feel like they are giving clues about the book in the begining beginning like the first test the kids had to take; something you have to look out for. Sometimes I feel like the chapters are too long if I have to do the whole assignment in one night but the book definitly definetely is detailed and descriptive. It is full of information. For quetions questions, I want to know from Mr. Benedict why he chose Constance for the team. I want to know what the point of the secret messages is and what they mean.
2.) Who are the executives and what is their job? What's the difference between a messenger and an executive? The executives "run the show" at the Institute. The all dress the same. The difference is the job they do and that the messengers pants are striped, the executives are plain.
3.) Describe Jackson and Jillson. What do you think their role is in this book? They are rude, proper executives at the Institute and are easily irritated. For their roles, I feel like they are extra-specially important employes at the Institue Institute because, well, I don't know. From the way they act, they just seem to know whay- what they are doing really well. They act very important, like 'you shouldn't mess with me'.
4.) On page 160 it states that Kate was, "trying to prove she didn't need anyone's help and this was easiest to believe when she was doing what she was good at." What do you think this means? So Kate's mom died when she was young and her dad left her. SHe didn't like being at an orphanage and kept running away. She must have felt abandond abandoned because she has taken care of herself all these years (with her bucket, which is almost like the only thing she has left,) and is trying to prove she doesn't need anyone. She must be really hurt inside knowing that her parents (well, not so much her mom but,) didn't want her. She believes that she is very good at taking care of herself (which I would agree with,) so when she is taking charge and being a leader, she thinks that this makes her feel that she really doesn't need anyone's help.
5.) The end of the chapter ends with a cliff-hanger. What is a cliff-hanger and why it important? I don't get the question, it doesn't talk about a cliff-hanger at the end of the chapter. What is a cliff-hanger? Every chapter in this book ends with a cliff-hanger. Bring this up at our group time.
Traps and Nonsense
6.) Why do you think there was a trap disguised with a plant on top? Do you think this will be important later in the book? What is that called when an author gives you clues as to what is going to occur further into the book? Maybe because of exactly what the kids were doing: being secret agents. The MBS team was exploring for anything unusual, any clues, any information to report to Mr. Benedict, so the Institue Institute may have set up traps to catch those people. Yes, I think it will be important later in the book. Maybe it will lead to some underground lab or something. I'm not sure about that last question.
7.) Who are the helpers? They are, well, helpers. They cook, clean, and handle maintenance.
8.) On page 166, the phrase "Whatever floats your boat," is an idiom. What is an idiom and what does this phrase mean? An idiom as dictionary.com states, "an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements." For this idiom, it pretty much means, whatever works for you. Like, I don't care, however you like to do things.
9.) What do you think about the Institute having no rules? How is this statement contradicted? Well, its "has no rules" promise comes with ules rules. For example, they can keep their lights on as late as you want each night until 10 o'clock pm. It makes no sense.
10.) What is a free market? Why do they have to memorize a chant about the free market? It is a 'free' and 'controlled in certain cases' place. We don't really know what it is and it said in the book that the kids would find out later why they have to memorize that chant. fate and diminutive size from page 152 ardous from page 164
Fate: Fate is like what lies ahead in your future. It is like predetermained predetermined.
Diminutive Size: I'm going to say unusual or small size.
Arduous: It was dificult difficult and required lots of labor.
Sunday March 4, 2012
Beware the Gemini and Lessons Learned
1.) On page 174 it states that the new kids always felt "conspicuous," what does this word mean? Conspicuous means easily seen or noticed. In the book, it probably means that the new kids felt like they couldn't hide; they felt like everybody could se them.
2.) What are the "recruiters" and "Institute scouts" that they are referring to? I think that these two title's mean or are referring to "unexpected new arrivals" but I'm not sure. I found this on page 175.
3.) What clues are mentioned in the book that might suggest that the new arrivals might have been kidnapped? Use text evidence in your answer. On page 175, it said that both the boy and the girl wore a dazed expression and ill-fitting clothes and their hair was wet from recent baths. THey they were the only ones who didn't seem happy.
4.) Describe Mr. Curtain. He had thick white hair, large round glasses with silver reflective lenses, cheeks reddened and his nose was large and lumpy, much like Mr. Benedict's. He wheeled around it a mobile cart. The MBS thinks he is Mr. Benedict because of the resemblence resemblance. He terrifies you, looks down at children and knows nothing about you. The exact opposite of Mr. Benedict.
5.) Could Mr. Curtain and Mr. Benedict be the same person? Yes, but I don't know why he would come over to the Institute and pretend to be someone he's not. It doesn't make sense. If the children were tricked, what is the point of it?
6.) Why would everything be backwards at the institute? What might their reasons for this be? Maybe everything's backwards because it is like the opposite of Mr. Benedict's house. The purpose that the MBS is there is to find information about these secret messages being sent through signals. Mr. Benedict's team is good. Mr. Curtain's is bad, right?
7.) What does the word "sasquatch" mean that is mentioned on page 179? The word sasquatch means big foot, or like a big beast or something.
8.) What is a cryptic message and why would this be important? A cryptic message is a message written in code, usually in the form of a puzzle. It is important in this book because that is the way MBS reports to their base. If they sent regular messages, the Institute would find out what is going on eventually.
9.) On page 184 it states, "As is always the case with a society, some arguing remained to be done." Is this true and why might this be important to all societies? I think this means that in every society, people will disagree. Yes, I think it's true because otherwise, how will the society get anywhere. A good team needs good thinkers who have different opinins opinions.
10.) What is "gemini" and why is this word important to this chapter? A gemini is a zodiac sign, a sign that is based on your birthday and what month you were born in. This is important because it gives a good, big clue. The sign for gimini gemini is twins. If Mr. Benedict and Mr. Curtain are long-lost brothers that makes sense; twins.
1. Why do you think that no mirrors can be found at the Institute? Ithink I think it might have something to do with these signals being sent out. Maybe they will bounce off of a mirror and send to somewhere it wasn't supposed to go.
2.) Find the idiom on page 188 and explain what it means. A stitch in time saves nine. This idiom means doing something now rather than later. For example, if your shirt has a loose thread, you should sew it now rather than later when you have to sew 'nine more stitches' and the thread is looser.
3.) What do you think of the statement, found on page 189, "Because it was impossible, in the end, to protect yourself from anything - no matter how hard you tried - it was important to try as hard as you could to protect yourself from everything." What does it mean in the story and what does it mean in life? In the book it means they have to be prepared to protect yourself from anything and everything. Try as hard as you can to protect yourself from germs but that's not going to protect you from germs. In life it means no matter how hard you try to avoid things you don't want to happen it will happen.
4. Why would SQ say she was "astounded or astonished" when Sticky and Reynie had received perfect scores? Why would this upset Martina? 5. What lessons had the kids learned in this chapter? What would this chapter be named, "Lessons Learned?" He was so shocked because it is really rare to get perfect scores. It probably upset Martina because she wants to be a messenger and the bys boys having perfect scores puts them higher up than her. The MBS learned more about how the Institute works and runs. THey learned lessons that were obvious and beyond obvious.
Monday March 5, 2012
People and Places to be Avoided
6.) The Helpers "averted" their eyes and had a "constant show of deference," why and what does this mean? This means the helpers were turning away or avoiding the children's eyes and had a constant show of respecting the judgement or order of someone else (Mr. Curtain). They were doing this because it was Mr. Curtains strict rules not to 'socialize' I guess or communicate with students at the Institute. They were doing their jobs very well.
7.) Why do you think that Mr. Curtain often was looking toward the bridge and off into the distance? He probably has a lot on his mind and doesn't want to be bothered. Or maybe that is what he is getting a break from: stress. He could be just brainstorming or thinking or just taking some time for himself.
8.) On page 201 it says that the corridor erupted into a "cacophony," what does this mean? Cacphony cacophony means a harsh, loud sound. The book meant that the kids were talking very loud and grim.
9.) Why wouldn't the students want to go to the Waiting Room? Use text evidence to support your answer. From the way kids acted in the book, it seems as if there is a myth, legend, 'curse' or backstory to the Waiting Room. Something must of happened either to a previous student or helper or something because from the bottom of page 200 to 202, this Corliss kid is dreading yet hesitating going to the Waiting Room because he doesn't want to upset Mr. Curtain. All the other bystanders in the corridor are gasping like it's a huge and murmuring quietly. I think the MBS will find out what is going on.
Wednesday March 7, 2012
Logical Couclusions and Miscalculations, Poison Apples, Poison Worms and A Surprising Suggestion
1. What does the simile "his eyelids felt heavy as anvils" mean? An amvil anvil is a heavy iron block with a smooth surface, usually of steel. The simile means that his eyelids felt like heavy iron; they could barely stay up.
2. On page 210, Jackson stated, "You can say whatever you like when you have permission, right now no one has permission." What is he referring to? He is saying you can say whatever you want when you are told you can. He is saying you can talk when you are called on, and right now, no one is called on.
3. On page 211, Sticky could feel the "malice," what does this mean? Martina was glaring at Sticky, she was obviously angry and jelous-as jealous usual. Malice means
"evil intent on the part of a person who commits a wrongful act injurious to others." from dictionary.com. So he could feel Martina's evil glare on him and felt as if she were going to hurt him.
4. Why is this chapter called Logical Conclusions and Miscalculations? Logical Conclusions because of the lessons they are 'learning' but don't understand. Miscalculations maybe because of what happened in class with Jackson and Martina.
5. How does fruit fit in with the discussion of taxes, war, health, the justice system.....? Jillson refered reffered to an apple for the government because on the outside, from what we can see, looks all polished and perfect, like an apple. But the inside might be different, poisonous because we can't see what they are really doing. Same thing with the people inside, poisinous poisonous worms.
6. The symbol poison apples, poison worms refers to what? This answer is pretty much in the last question.
7. Reynie looked at the literal meaning of being poisoned, was he wrong? Explain your reasoning. Yes, he thought that Martina had told the Helpers to put poisin in the MBS lunches because she despises them. But then he figured out that it was really the hidden messages. He must of blamed Martina because of the anger emotion he was reciving recieving.
8. On page 216, it states that, "Most of us will simple feel irritable and confused." Have you heard this before? Where and what were they referring to? They will feel that way because they have special minds that recive recieve the messages and irritation as well. Mr. Benedict had pointed this out before the kids left.
9. Mr. Benedict told the children that their love for the truth will protect them, what does this mean? Their love for the truth is being a good student and NOT CHEATING. If they behave good and the less trouble they get in, the more info they will find because people are't aren't keeping a close eye on them.
10. Why can Constance hear the Messenger's voice? She has a 'sensitive' mind so she hears the messages more, I guess, severe than the others.
11. Explain the response the children got from the mainland on page 219. Their saying they have less time than what was expected but still need to hurry and get the information that is not taught. They are saying try something else to get the girls up to pace, cheat, which is what they are all not. Cheaters.
12. Why is it so important that the children become Messengers as quickly as possible? When they are messengers, they know more information about rhe "behind the scences scenes" stuff. And they can do more snooping.
13. What does the word "evasively" mean at the bottom of page 222? Evasively means to get away from something with cleverness and/or trickery. Kate was almost doubting Constance trying her best but didn't want her making a fuss so covered it up.
14. Why couldn't Charlie explain about the special privileges? It is probablty probably against rules and he is probably a good student so he didn't want to ruin things right before his graduation. Also, S.Q. was right there.
1. Why was Reynie jealous? He felt sympathy (or so he thought) for the 2 new special recruits because they had nowhere and no one else to turn to if they were kidknapped kidnapped. Later, he realized that his sympathy was jelously jealousy. Maybe because he didn't make it on the new messengers list. Or that the special recruits would only focus on the Institute and become messengers and be important. Be part of something. Maybe that is what made Reynie jealous.
2. On page 236, it says that Mr. Curtain rolled his chair almost "imperceptibly", what does this mean? It means very slightly, so his chair was moving very slightly closer to Reynie.
3. "If you don't trust them, keep them close." What does this mean and why would Reynie say this statement? If you think they'll cause trouble, then keep them close so you can keep a close eye on them. Reynie might've said it to 1.) Just keep the conversation with Mr. Curtain moving or 2.) maybe because he is trying to get Mr. Curtain to make Constance a messenger so then he could "keep an eye on her."
4. What is a sense of "deja vu?" (page 238) It is where you feel like you have already seen, heard or experienced something before and it can get sort of irritating.
5. "Control is always the key." What is this supposed to mean? When you have control, things will go smoothly and right. When you don't have control, things could get caotic.
Of Families Lost and Found
1. Why is this chapter called Of Families Lost and Found? When the team reported to Mr. Benedict, they replied "What has been lost may yet be found. Have hope." The team was also talking about the brainwashing so people forget everything, includin including their families. Some may not be completely lost, like Milligan.
2. On page 254, it states, "What has been lost may yet be found, Have hope." What does this message from the mainland mean? This could refer to people's memories. Again, like Milligan, people could remember SOME things.
3. Respond to Reynie's idea of what a family might be all about, "I have no experience, but well, is this what family is like? The feeling that everyone's connected, that with one piece missing the whole thing's broken?" I think it's true. But it depends on his definition of 'missing.' Like, dead, or gone for a weekend on a buisness trip or something. Since Reynie has never really had a family, I guess both would be considered missing because family would be so special.
4. On page 257, it, "family is often born of blood, but it doesn't depend on blood." What does this mean? In your family, you are born of the same blood. But you could consider good friends family as if they were born of your blood.
5. What was the cliff hanger in the chapter Of Families Lost and Found? At the end, when Reynie says "Maybe we don't HAVE to lay hands on Mr. Curtain's journal."
6. Why do you think that family is such an important theme that is woven in and out of almost each chapter? Well, because none of the kids in MBS really have a family anymore. It is important to them because it was taken away from them. Maybe because the team and Mr.Benedict's team are now a family, a new one that they never had.
7. What does "Tactical Caciupi" mean and why would the author name this chapter that title? I think it means you have a plan and/or procedure to get to a certain end or result. (The team was trying to read the journal.)
8. Why would Mr. Curtain say that one of his biggest accomplishments would be the invention of his tidal turbines? Explain what these are and how might they be used on the island. The turbines created enough energy to power 100 Institutes, let alone 1. When the Institute broadcasts the hidden messages it's a weak signal. The turbines can produce lots of energy to send these messages on random signals on high-power energy. Which, you can see, is why Mr.Curtain would consider this a big accomplishment.
9. What was Kate using her spy glass/kaleidoscope for? She was spying in Mr. Curtain's secret journal while Reynie was stalling him on the pages. It helped her see closer, like a magnifying glass.
10. Knowing Sticky's talents, what do you think he is being used for when it comes to the journal? His memory that remembers everything he sees.
11. On page 267, the first entry is read and one part states, "There is no such thing as perfect control. I have come to understand, however, that the illusion of perfect control can amount to the same thing." What does this mean and what implications might this have on the story? Well, it means that you can't have perfect control, but if you lie about it or trick someone, it can almost be the same thing.
12. How can you have an illusion of control? Maybe by brainwashing people...? If you make them think that they are under control by repetetly repeatedly telling them things to make it believe it is true.
13. Explain "brainsweeping." By telling a person things repetetly repeatedly, you could brainwash someone into making them believe something else. Then eventually, after the keep hearing the things you want them to think, they will meet your goal.
14. Why aren't the special recruits every scared? They have been completely brainwashed so they can't remember anything from their past. So they have really nothing to worry about. Some people like Milligan, can remember some things.
15. What do you think the "improvement" is that they are talking about on page 270? I think they are getting ready to broadcast the hidden messages at full power.
16. What do you think his message on page 272 means? That maybe after the messages are sent, he will brainwash everyone and so these are things he will tell them to make them sweeped swept.
Thursday March 15, 2012
Caught In the Act, The Waiting Room
1. Why is this chapter called, "Caught in the Act?" It is called "Caught In the Act" because Sticky had been caught for cheating by Jillson. She had seen him pulling at his ear, helping Constance.
2. On page 277 it says, "precipice." What does this mean and how is it used in the sentence? "Precipice" means a vertical cliff. In the book, Reynie had a bad dream where he had fallen off a precipice.
3. Why were Reynie, Kate and Constance trying to climb the wall? They were climbing the wall because they were trying to see what the Executives were doing in the gym when it was closed.
4. Again, it mentions the "improvement." Any clues as to what this might be? I think they mean that Mr. Curtain is about to broadcast the hidden messages at full-power from the turbines because he is improving the amount of messages being sent out and how much energy they use.
5. On page 282, the word "ominous" is used. What does this word mean and how is it used in the sentence? "Ominous" means it means evil or harm, threatining threatening. In the book, the back door gave a threatining threatening thump when S.Q. opened it after he saw Reynie.
6. Describe Sticky as he came out of the Waiting Room. Walking in the room like a zombie, Sticky was covered in slimy black mud that carried a horrible odor. He had red, swollen eyes that gave a look of total despair. He was speechless.
7. Why wouldn't Sticky talk after he came out? I guess he just didn't want to talk about it. It was an awful place. He was just happy to get out of there.
8. List the main characters and what they have to offer to a "team." Why might this be important to the rest of the book? (Reynie, Constance, Kate and Sticky) Reynie is smart, and a problem solver. He knows how to get around a tough spot. Kate is cheery, bold, daring and clever. She think of ideas no one else would and always has the right tool for the job. Sticky is very smart and a thinker. He remembers everything he sees perfectly. Constance is a little on the rude side and small. She could fit into small spaces and she is not afrais afraid to say what she thinks. There is also a kind side to her.
9. What was the main idea for this chapter? Give two supporting details. The main idea of the Waiting Room is Sticky getting out of the waiting room. Reynie and Kate both reassure him that he is going to be fine and they would always be there to back him up. Like Reynie said " ...But it's still you in there Sticky- still my good friend!" Kate also said "If they send you back there (to the waiting room) we'll find a way to get you out."
1. What was the dilemma that Sticky was facing with Mr. Curtain? What would you have done? He had to confess about cheting but not tell about Mr. Benedict and why the MBS is really there. I would've, well... I don't know if I would've blamed Martina because she might've been a danger, and I wouldn't of denied it because it would've made the Exectuives executives be more cautious around you. I don't know...
2. State Mr. Curtain's view on the idea of "control." He's idea of control is erasing your memory of your old life. You are under his power basically
3. Why do you think that Sticky got off the hook for cheating and Reynie got off the hook for lying? For Sticky, I guess they've realized that he is hard on pressure so they weren't that hard on him but Mr. Curtain believed him when he said that Martina made him do it. For Reynie, they must have just thought they reconized recognized the other boys face.
4, On page 304 it states that Martina's face, "shone with malevolence," what does this mean and how does that apply to this sentence? It means she wished harm to come to the other students because they would be jealous of her. It fits in because Martina's personality is evil and mean.
5. Why would Martina be promoted to Executive? Give reasons and your thinking as to why. Mr. Curtain remembered Reynie saying if you don't trust them keep them close. So this way he can keep an eye on her more than before.
6. What does it mean when Mr. Curtain says that the "best way of dealing with those you don't trust is to keep them close." Reynie said this and now so has Mr. Curtain - what do you think this means for the both of them? It means if you keep someone you don't trust close, you'll see more of them than before. You can keep a closer eye on them. I think for them it means you can see the secrets of the other person you want to know.
7. Why did Mr. Curtain make Sticky and Reynie messengers? Maybe it's like the answer to the last question. Mr. Curtain might not trust them because they're new and acing all their tests. He wants to keep an eye on them.
8. The coded message read: With open eyes now you may find A place you must exit to enter. Where one ----
What do you think this message might mean? Give reasons for your thinking. With eyes now open... so they must have been closed before?? It sounds like Mr. Benedict and his team know about something that they don't. A place you must exit to enter... they must have seen something with their telescopes. Where one-- that could mean anything; where one lives, where one thinks... that part is hard.
Monday, March 19th
Read The Whisperer and Open Sesame
Due Wednesday, March 21st
1. At the beginning of the chapter, Reynie has a dream. What do you think the dream means?
Reynie's dream was that he had actually written out his letters to Miss Perumal and Jackson had found them. Jackson had been smirking "We've got you!" and "It's the Waiting Room for you!" I think the dream means Reynie was afraid that someone at the Institute would find out about why the MBS is really there. He could've also been scared about becoming a messenger or something.
2. On page 314, it states that Reynie and Sticky shook hands "resolutely," what does this mean and how does it fit into the sentence?
'Resolutely' means determined; set in purpose or opinion. It makes sense because Reynie and Sticky had just agreed to be 'on their toes' because this was their fist day of being messengers. They shook hands with a purpose, like the definition says.
3. On page 315, Jackson refers to Sticky or George as "dimwitted," what does this mean and how does it fit into the sentence?
'Dimwit' means stupid or slow-thinking. It fits in because Sticky was slow-thinking. He had asked about classes while Jackson, Reynie and himself were on their way to the Whispering Gallery. The classes were to prepare you if you ever became a messenger or executive. That's why Jackson refers to Sticky as a dimwit.
4. Why couldn't the boys know the way to the Whispering Gallery? I'm guessing maybe because if they knew where it was a curious student at the Institute may go in and explore or something. I think it all has to do with Mr. Curtain's secrets of the Institute.
5. Describe the Whispering Gallery. The Whispering Gallery is a large, simple room with no furniture except for a single desk, two cushions and the whisperer itself. It is a machine resembling an old-fashioned salon-styled hair dryer. There is not much in the room so nothing will damage the machine, nothing to be used at all for a weapon.
6. On page 317, it states that the Whispering Gallery is so "austere," what does this mean? 'Austere' means severe in manner or appearance, strict, forbidding. The room is very strict of security and forbidding heavy objects that may damage the whisperer.
7. Again the idea of control comes up over and over, why? Mr. Curtain believes that if everything and everyone is doing what he wants them to do and they are under his "control," his plan will succeed. He controls them by brainsweeping them and makes them forget their old life or old identity. He feels this is the key to his plan.
8. Describe what The Whispering can do and not do. The Whispering can make you feel happy; it "fills you with an astonishing sense of well-being." It can talk to you through thoughts and can read your thoughts, too. It cannot make you do anything, like it cannot make you think something. It cannot work without Mr. Curtain in his red helmet, either connected to it.
9. On page 319, when Renyie states that, "They go down easier, like candy rather than medicine." What is he talking about? Mr. Curtain was saying how their function in the Whisperer is "that of a filter". Mr. Curtain's thoughts onced passed through their minds are more easily procesed. So Reynie restated that as "they go down easier, like candy rather than medicine.
10. On page 319 it refers to "inputting data," what is this? Mr. Curtain's explaination for the Whisperer was that they were giving data of information in their minds when really, they were being broadcast to others.
11. On page 321, it states, "poison apples, poison worms," again - now what is this referring to? Why is this phrase repeated throughout the book? It is refering to that things can look good and polished on the outside-like government- but be poisonous on the inside. Same thing with people. Maybe it is repeating in the book because it is pretty much what the Institute is doing; tricking you into thinking they are the good guys when they really aren't.
12. On the last page of The Whisperer" it ends with Sticky saying, "Not being wanted, not being wanted at all," what was the question? The question was "What do you fear most?" and that was Sticky's answer. I feel so bad for him! : (
13. Why didn't Reynie want to sit and eat with the rest of the messengers? What excuse did he give the messenger? He didn't want to be split apart from Kate and Constance because they are his team and the boys needed to fill they girls in. His excuse was "stomach viruses."
14. On page 333, when Constance says that Reynie is "on," what does this mean? When Reynie was in the Whisperer, he was being recorded of all the hidden messages he heard. They broadcast his recording and so Constance was hearing the message Reynie and the real one.
15. How do we know that Mr. Curtain will be done with the Messengers after "the Improvement?" The Improvement is recording the messages I think. So the messengers use the Whisperer to record and once all the hidden messages are recorded, there won't be a use for the messengers any more.
16. What are the clues about the trap? I don't exactally get the question... more clarification please!
17. How did the kids figure out the code? S.Q. left a not saying "LOSE the new code? Turn OVER for the new code!" So when you turn the paper upsidedown, LOSE, looks like 3507, the code.
Wednesday, March 21st
Read Practice Makes Perfect and Know Thine Enemy
Answer the following questions and make sure that you have part of each question into each answer.
Due Friday, March 23rd
1. Why is this chapter called "Practice Makes Perfect?" I think it's called "Practice Makes Perfect" because after the kids get out of the box in Mr. Curtain's secret room, they find enough evidence to figure out that the helpers, the messengers, the recruiters, they are all part of an experiment of Mr. Curtain's. He has been practicing on them and everyone at the Institute before he really launches his plan.
2. Why would the government press releases be dated for the future? Mr. Curtain is preparing for the future when he sends the mesages all over the world and makes them like him. The press releases are articles Mr. Curtain intends to have printed when everybody likes him, or msybe to get the last few people who resist him to like him.
3. What does the article and page 346/347 mean? The messages that Mr. Curtain are creating to send out are a trick. He is going to make people think that these random messages are a "crisis" and he will be the "hero." He basically is just getting people to like him.
4. Why would Mr. Curtain want to create fear in everyone? Mr. Curtain thinks that the most important element in human personality is fear. That's is why the Whisperer has so much liking from the messengers, it soothes their fears and he uses it to motivate them. If he created a fear that everyone would have in common, he could solve it easily and everyone would stand by him. He intends to make everyone feel like the messengers.
5. Why would Mr. Curtain want to put together an Amnesia Sanctuary? He needs a place to put the people who resist him. I think he will do what he did to Milligan, make themn forget everything and brainsweep them, therefore making them put their trust in Mr. Curtain.
6. Why is this chapter called, "Know Thine Enemy?" They spot Milligan while sending a message. Mr. Benedict's response is "Know Thine Enemy." I think that is because Milligan was dressed as a recruiter, so I think that is why they didn't reply because they wanted them to spot Milligan. They wanted them to look out for people before they sent the message back so they would see Milligan.
7. What is the "memory terminal?" It is an underground warehouse with many crates filled with, I think Whisperers (because Reynie saw a crate with machine parts and saw a red and blue helmet) to ship all over the world (like China.) Then he can use the Whisperer on everyone and make them feel like the messengers.
8. On page 353, Reynie states, "But we are too late! Much, much too late," what is he referring to? They were too late because Mr. Curtain was ready to complete his plan. They were looking at all the crates and stuff in the memory terminal and realized they had almost run out of time.
9. Who was the "recruiter" staring up at the window at night? It was Milligan. He was the "enemy" from the message. They were trying to get the children to look out and see him.10. Why would he send the message to hurry? He wanted them to come to him, so they could get off the island and put them in a safer home. Now that Mr. Curtain couldn't be stopped, the MBS needed to be 'safe'.
11. Why was Milligan on the island? He had come to get the kids because their mission was complete and they needed to stay safe and get off the island.
12. Why wouldn't the kids follow Milligan? The kids (well, at least Reynie and Kate) felt the need to help the other brainswept people and stop Mr. Curtain. They felt as if they couldn't leave the island.
13. What was the message that Mr. Benedict sent with Milligan to give to the kids? In the book, Milligan says to the MBS, "Mr. Benedict said to remind you that everyone of you is essential to the sucsess of the team- that now more than ever, you must rely upon one another in all things. What's more, you must rely upon me. Whatever develops, I'm here to help you. I'm staying on the island. When the time comes, this is the place to contact me."
Friday, March 23rd
Read A Chess Lesson and The Mouse in the Culvert
Due Monday, March 26th
1. What is Reynie's plan that he refers to on page 364? He didn't really have a plan. All he could come up with was to disable the Whisperer. He thought it was a stupid plan but Kate loved it.
2. Why was Reynie so afraid of "betraying?" He thought that he and Sticky were afraid of betraying how strongly the Whisperer was affecting them. He was the leader of the group because everyone looked at him for ideas and stuff, but he thought he was letting Mr. Benedict down because he didn't have the characteristics of one. He was also mad at himself for letting Kate go alone to try to disable the Whisperer.
3. Why was Reynie doubting himself? Reynie feels like he isn't brave or clever enough to be a leader like Mr. Benedict wanted. He sends him a message and he sends back a message saying not to doubt yourself, like the white knight in the first tests in the beginning.
4. Why was Reynie sending Mr. Benedict a message? He wanted advice, encouragement, guidence or anything to help him. He thought that if everyone in the group loked up to him, then he had to look up to Mr. Benedict.
5. What was the message that Mr. Benedict sent back? He sent back "Remember the White Knight."
6. What did the message mean? The night Mr. Benedict and Reynie were talking about it, Reynie thought that it wasn't a good move and he might've chose it because he doubted himself. Mr. Benedict was saying not to doubt yourself.
7. How did Kate get into the elevator? She stood on her bucket and unscrewed the mantinence shaft above and climbed up the cable.
8. Why didn't she want to push any of the buttons in the elevator? If she pushed the buttons, the elevator would make noise and then Jackson would hear and catch her in the act, like Sticky.
9. How does Mr. Curtain deal with the subject of fear? The messages that are sent through the Whisperer deny the fears so that they go away just for a little while. Then they come back later.
10. What is Martina's job? She will help with the sweepers in the memory terminal. I think the sweepers are like whisperers.
11. How did Mr. Curtain make sure no one was in the culvert? He poured down his steaming hot water and listen for a cry of pain.
12. What did Kate see in the water that had deceived her? She saw jagged rocks in the water that looked like shark fins.